How to avoid joint pain whilst gardening

One of our favourite outdoor activities can help boost mood, keep you fit and improve mental health, but if you don’t use the best techniques when using your tools you can end up with back pain, aching muscles and sore joints.

According to Arthritis Research UK, 89 per cent of gardeners report suffering from joint pain as a lot of strain is put on them by the repetitive nature of many gardening tasks. Millions of people in the UK suffer from Osteoarthritis (OA), with one third of over-45s having sought treatment for the condition.

But rather than reducing your time spent in the garden, follow these useful tips from GOPO Joint Health on how to keep gardening without causing joint pain.

1. Use the correct tools

One sure way to cause an injury is to use inappropriate tools. Avoid over-reaching and heavy lifting by employing long handled tools or lightweight equipment. This will put less strain on your joints and keep them healthier. It's also important to keep your gardening tools in top condition to help avoid unnecessary stress on your joints.

Ruth Hornby PhotographyGetty Images

2. Opt for electrical tools rather than manual

Rather than always using manual tools, opt for electrical ones to reduce pressure on joints. For example, go for a hedge trimmer instead of manual garden shears. Your joints will thank you for the swap.

3. Make the best of your garden space

Where possible use stools, benches and tables to help you avoid bending over and crouching too much. Knee pads are also a good choice to soften pressure on your knees.

4. Warm up and stretch

Like any form of exercise, you've got to warm up and stretch before you start to ensure you don't get injured. This will increase your flexibility and allow you to work for a longer period of time. Once you've packed your gardening tools away at the end of the day, make sure to stretch to prevent stiffening of the joints.

AtnoYdurGetty Images

5. Take the right things

Research has found that joint health supplements can help reduce joint pain and stiffness, and improve joint mobility.

Consultant rheumatologist Dr Rod Hughes said: 'Now the side effects of paracetamol are well documented it is imperative that we look at safer, long-term alternatives for those living with joint pain.

'One such option could be the galactolipid GOPO®, which has been shown in randomised, placebo controlled clinical trials to significantly reduce arthritis joint pain.'

House Beautiful, Part of the Hearst UK Fashion & Beauty Network
House Beautiful participates in various affiliate marketing programs, which means we may get paid commissions on editorially chosen products purchased through our links to retailer sites.